TRENTON — Legislation Assembly Democrats Celeste Riley, Craig J. Coughlin and John Burzichelli sponsored to help ease the blow of rising gas prices by allowing retailers to offer rebates, and promotions for purchasing gasoline was advanced Thursday by an Assembly committee.

“It’s time we push New Jersey’s gasoline retail market into the 21st Century to benefit our motorists,” said Riley (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “If every other retailer is allowed to offer promotions to lure in customers with better deals, then gas retailers should be given that same opportunity, especially when gas prices are so high. Quite simply, this bill is common sense and a plus for New Jersey motorists.”

“Consumers benefit daily from savings through coupons, discounts and other promotions at just about every business in New Jersey, except for gas stations,” said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “That’s why this antiquated law needs changing. Gas is something most people have no choice but to buy, and this bill simply opens the door to more savings when New Jerseyans head to the pump. That’s a good thing by any measure.”

“This outdated law makes little sense for consumers, especially in this era of increased competition and volatile gas prices,” said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Why shouldn’t gas stations should be able to offer deals that cut prices to entice motorists to buy their products? That’s what competition is all about, and competition can only benefit motorists who need these savings.”

The bill (A-3133) stipulates that a consumer who earns credits through purchases on a credit card, debit card or rewards card may use those credits to receive a rebate or discount when purchasing gas.

It was released by the Assembly Regulatory Oversight and Gaming Committee chaired by Burzichelli.